'My Dalek costume is cheering up the over-60s'

News imageJohn Devine/BBC A woman dressed as a Dalek. She is wearing a full-length gold-coloured costume that reaches the floor, with a groups of people aged over 60 sitting at two tables in a village hall behind her.John Devine/BBC
McLellan said her neighbour sold her a number of costumes

The manager of a social club for people over 60 said a Doctor Who-themed event "brought memories flooding back" for its members.

Polly McLellan treated her members to an unexpected trip through time and space when she arrived at the Warboys Young at Heart Club, dressed as a Dalek.

She said she had recently bought a bundle of second-hand fancy dress outfits from her neighbour, to wear for themed days which might strike a chord with the attendees of the Cambridgeshire club - some of whom are living with dementia.

McLellan explained that the club helped to promote social interaction for people "who are perhaps isolated and are looking for some companionship."

News imagePA Media A full-size Dalek from the Doctor Who franchise against a black background.PA Media
The Daleks are a fictional extraterrestrial race featured in Doctor Who

McLellan said the club held twice-weekly sessions at the Warboys Community Centre, where her team entertained the guests.

She said about 25 people attended the Doctor Who event, many of whom fondly remembered watching the original black and white episodes in the 1960s.

"It is such a well-known programme, a bit Marmite in that you either love it or hate it, but it spans so many decades that most people can relate to it," she added.

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